Many people are so caught up in the news of the day that they miss the great treasure that within themselves. There are many things that can influence someone, whether it is the news, commercials, or even other people. The best way to be influenced is by choosing how we want to be influenced. How many people do you know who can still quote lines from The Godfather? There is an old saying that if you don’t take control of your own mind, someone else will. There are many ways to take control of the mind, and one of the most enjoyable ways is by reading a good book.

If you want to know more about a person, ask what books they read? That is one of the best ways to find out what makes a person tick, how they think, what is in their head. If I see someone who is very successful, meaning happy and healthy, I want to know what books they read. I met a person once who looked much younger than his age. He told me he practices yoga and eats good food. He recommended a book to me, The China Study. I bought the book and read it and I am so glad I did. It confirmed many things I knew, and now I know for sure and why. It is always a treat when I can get a recommendation for a book to read.

I will now state the obvious. If you want to be healthy, read a book about nutrition, and exercise. If you want to be financially independent, read books about finances and how others became that way. If you want to be better at sports, read books about sports. If you want to know more about what is going on in the world or about the lives of the famous and not so famous, there are many books to choose from. Some books you can read over and over again. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill comes to mind.

The Bible says you can be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Romans 12:2. We have the power each day to shape our thoughts, if we choose to. What is on your best books list? What books have you read in the past year, and how have they affected you. Would you recommend any of these books to others? Are they keepers to read again one day, or do you give them away? Is there a skill or knowledge that you would like to have or learn about? What books would you like to read in this coming year? Do you read all of the same types of books or do you read books on a variety of subjects? Is there anyone who you would like to learn more about? Believe it or not, you can learn more about Donald Trump by reading some of the many biographies about him. I have read many books about him, and that is why I know he will make an outstanding president. I wonder what is on his best books list.